The Wells For Life GALA turned out to be a successful event for African Reflections Foundation on Saturday June 6th 2009.
Well wishers turned out to raise money to build more wells in Tanzania, 30,000$ raised.

Present at the Gala were several dignitaries from Tanzania. The District Commissioner Mr. Henry Clemens was present. He explained that it was important for him to be here to support ARF as he has witnessed the good work they are doing in his District. He confirmed his commitment to work very closely with the organization as they are committed and have changed many lives in Mkuranga. He urged people to donate more towards the cause.

Also present was Dr. Mwele Malecela (Phd) who is the current Chairwoman of ARF Chapter in Tanzania. Dr. Mwele emphasized ARF's commitment to work toward changing lives, to empower women and men in Mkuranga District. She explained the importance in using money raised for the specific cause and to help communities maintain sustainable projects. She said the organization is committed in its work and that ARF is looking into strategized projects of which she unveiled a strategic plan for 2009/10.

During the GALA, Maria Pool, ARF Founder explained what makes ARF a different organization. She told a full crowd how ARF use 100 percent of the money raised to built wells and direct for other direct projects. She explained how every expense is done separately so that every money contributed from the public reaches those in need. This is made possible as ARF work on hands in the fields and work with the communities, research, discuss the problems facing them. She quoted "We are the specialists because we live in Tanzania, we know the peoples need. We know the system and we work very closely with the local Government institutions, so we know what we are doing is right and is within the Government planning. We take their advise and work with them in the fields, hence the communities we work with is aware of the seriousness of our organization"

She explained how ARF is committed to account for every penny which is raised and said that ARF was accountable for peoples money. Therefore their presence in the fields make this possible by controlling prices of all materials for building wells and in other projects.

How do we prove this: Since we are working in the fields, our photographers and staff take pictures and video of all projects and its impact and we bring it back to you, so you can see how your money is spent, she said. We are accountable for every penny.

She also stressed the importance in working with other individuals, teams, groups and organizations. She stressed that ARF is a medium ready to work in joint ventures with any organizations. We are based locally, we are well established, Many people work for the same cause and many a times they find it difficult for them to start or to find the right partners locally. ARF is therefore committed to work with different specialists to benefit those in need in specialized fields.

On the other hand Karen Flewelling, an american citizen from Saratoga, NY, working hand in hand with ARF, told the crowd her experience working with ARF and how she witnessed her project of building wells were fully controlled and money spent in the right way.

Team Rafiki, a team of friends who has been teaming up with ARF since 2008, also presented their experience working with ARF. Team Rafiki leave the US again this year in August for Tanzania. The team of 17 volunteers will be working on different projects in a joint venture with ARF. A 40 feet container worth of 700.000$ left Albany late May 2009 in advance of their August visit. The container full of supplies for healthcare, education, community development projects.

Other dignitaries present were the Commissioner of OGS, Mr. John Egan. Mrs. Wanda Willingham council who was the Chief Guest Speaker said that it is high time for the american people to realize a world away people need help. She emphasized the need for young americans to be committed to help the mother land. She asked people to continue giving and ask guests to commit themselves for a well which should be built in Agust 2009.